80 Abducted Worshippers Escape Bandits, Return Home in Kaduna Community

At least 80 worshippers abducted during a deadly bandit attack on Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have safely returned to their homes after spending nearly two weeks in neighbouring villages, local authorities have confirmed. The development has provided a measure of relief to families and residents, even as dozens of victims remain in captivity and fresh attacks continue to heighten tension across the area.

The Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, disclosed the development during a telephone interview on Sunday, explaining that contrary to initial reports, not all the worshippers taken during the attack were successfully whisked away by the bandits. According to him, many of the victims managed to escape during the chaos of the assault and fled to surrounding communities for safety.

“When the attack happened, reports suggested that about 177 worshippers were abducted,” Dan’azumi said. “However, after careful verification, we discovered that 80 of them escaped and sought refuge in neighbouring villages. They have now returned home.”

Despite the positive development, the traditional leader expressed deep concern over the fate of the remaining 86 worshippers who are still being held by the attackers. He appealed to the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure their safe and unconditional release.

“Our people are traumatised. Families are going through pain and uncertainty,” he said. “Some individuals are trying to politicise our suffering, but what we need now is urgent action. We are appealing to the government and the military to expedite operations so that those still in captivity can return alive.”

A military source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, attributed the return of the displaced worshippers to sustained security operations targeting bandit enclaves in Kajuru Local Government Area and adjoining forest corridors. According to the source, increased troop movements, patrols, and offensives against criminal hideouts have put pressure on bandit groups operating in the area, forcing some captives to escape during moments of disarray.

However, authorities acknowledged that details surrounding the exact circumstances of the escape remain unclear. It is also uncertain whether the escape occurred collectively or in smaller groups over several days.

The Kurmin Wali attack, which took place on a Sunday night, reportedly occurred while worshippers were gathered for a religious service. Armed men stormed the community, firing sporadically and abducting several people, while others fled into nearby bushes and settlements to evade capture. The incident sparked widespread fear and displacement, with many residents abandoning their homes.

Tension in Kajuru has been further exacerbated by renewed violence. On Tuesday, bandits reportedly launched another attack on the Maikori community in Maro Ward, also within Kajuru Local Government Area, killing three residents. A local source identified the victims as Hassan Agola, Lawal Samson, and Baba Apolo.

Residents say the latest killings have deepened anxiety and reinforced concerns over the worsening security situation in the area. Community leaders and residents are now calling for a stronger and more permanent security presence to curb the recurring attacks.

A community source disclosed that troops have stepped up patrols in recent days, which has allowed some displaced residents to cautiously return to their homes. Nevertheless, fear remains widespread, particularly among families whose loved ones are still in captivity.

When contacted, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the police would issue a comprehensive statement on the Kurmin Wali abduction and related incidents.

“The police will come out with a detailed report surrounding the incident,” he said.

Kajuru Local Government Area has, in recent years, emerged as one of the major flashpoints of banditry in Kaduna State. Repeated attacks have resulted in the loss of lives, mass displacement of residents, destruction of property, and disruption of economic and social activities.

While the return of 80 worshippers offers a glimmer of hope, residents insist that lasting peace will only be achieved through sustained security operations, intelligence-driven policing, and long-term measures to dismantle criminal networks operating across the region.